A review by bigcitydreamer
A Beautiful Rival: A Novel of Helena Rubinstein and Elizabeth Arden by Gill Paul

informative lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

A riveting historical fiction overview of a previously unknown-to-me rivalry between Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubenstein. The author does a great job fleshing out the protagonists, though I wonder if Ms. Arden really was as unpleasant as she appears in the book? (Perhaps!). A fairly easy but still educational read, perfect for the darker days of winter or something easy on the beach in summer.